Thai authorities continue to apply pressure on the more than 6,500 Hmong refugees in Phetchabun province to force them to return to Laos. The Hmongs have been expelled from their villages and are now living on streets.
Thai merchants are forbidden to sell food to the refugees or face a fine up to $1,200. The harsh measures have so far resulted in the death of a two-month old Hmong baby girl, who came down with a high fever after she and her parents spent a shelterless day and night in the rain.
Lao authorities so far have not taken any action regarding the plights of those refugees. Laos' ambassador to Thailand, Mr. Hiem Phommachanh, says he is still waiting for official notice from the Thai government.
Listen to our Laos Today report for details.